SABBATH-SCHOOL
Lesson Quarterly
Mountain View, Cal., July, 1910
[Entered as second-class matter October 13, 1904, at the Post-office in
Mountain View, Cal., under the Act of Congress of
March 3, 18791
No. 61
5 cents
Lessons on the
Life of Christ
For Senior 'Division
Third Quarter, 1910
July to September
Published by
Pacific Press Publishing A ssociation
Mountain View, California
SABBATH-SCHOOL
.
STATISTICS
The Record for Twenty-Three Years
Previous to 1887 the California schools had
given $700 for the work in Australia.
Year
Members
Total
Contributions
Donated to
Missions
1887
23,700
$16,751.83
$10,615.72
1888
25,375
18,485.77
10,755.34
1889
28,900
22,541.24
11,767.95
1890
32,000
28,642.75
17,707.39
1891
33,400
29,435.05
16,750.94
1892
35,300
37,542.27
23,618.77
1893
40,100
37,936.11
24,162.50
1894
49,626
39,562.42
20,850.50
1895
50,266
37,336.35
19,800.76
1896
54,070
40,125.13
23,666.08
1897
52,045
41,541.40
33,409.32
1898
55,160
40,301.87
21,475.18
1899
53,967
39,071.79
21,842.09
1900
55,255
46,794.40
25,235.47
1901
57,762
43,819.67
21,947.90
1902
59,351
51,642.01
28,298.86
1903
66,811
55,823.85
34,778.85
1904
71,643
60,460.80
40,278.05
1905
71,700
69,421.95
48,972.42
1906
75,622
74,775.26
57,915.81
1907
83,651
86,454.47
71,753.01
1908
88,843 104,917.72
94,500.12
1909
92,694
117,961.96
112,047.46
$1,141,346.07
•
$792,150.49
During this time, in addition to the amount
contributed to missions, the Sabbath-schools
on special occasions gave $53,104.40 for the
maintenance of the Haskell Home for Orphans.
Sabbath-School Lessons on the
LIFE OF CHRIST
NOTE.- In the lessons for this quarter we shall study the
closing scenes in Jesus' public ministry. Every act of Christ
during this time, and especially His words to His disciples, con-
tain lessons of deep significance to us who live in the last days
of the gospel work upon the earth. Therefore each lesson should be
studied very carefully. Jesus tore away the mask that the scribes
and Pharisees used in hiding their deformities of character. He
was well aware of what the result would be in thus bringing the
truth to bear upon these hidden sins. "Satan's attacks against
the advocates of the truth will wax more bitter and determined
to the very close of time. As in Christ's day the chief priests and
rulers stirred up the people against Him, so to-clay the religious
leaders will excite bitterness and prejudice against the truth for
this time. The people will be led to acts of violence and oppo-
sition which they would never have thought of had they not been
imbued with the animosity of professed Christians against the
truth."—"
Testimonies for the Church," volume 9, page 09.
Let
us learn of Christ, by studying His methods and words during the
last days of His ministry, that we may he prepared to meet the
issues before us.
LESSON I.— Warnings and Woes
JULY 2, 1910
LESSON SCRIPTURE: Matthew 23.
RELATED
SCRIPTURE:
Luke .20:45-47.
LESSON
HELPS
:
"Desire of Ages," chapter 67;
Sabbath
School Worker.
PLACE: To the temple at Jerusalem.
PERSONS:
Jesus; the disciples; the chief priests, scribes, and
Pharisees; the multitude.
Questions
1.
With what words did Jesus begin His discourse?
6
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
What did He tell His disciples to do ? What were they
not to do ? Why ? Matt. 23 : 1-3. Note L
2.
What did the Pharisees bind upon the people?
What were they themselves unwilling to do ? Verse 4.
3.
By what motive were these religious teachers
prompted in their services ? Verses 5-7.
4.
What instruction did He give His followers re-
garding titles of honor? Verses 8-10.
5.
What principle opposite to that followed by the
world must govern the actions of the subjects of His
kingdom ? Verses 11, 12. Note 2.
6.
What did Christ pronounce upon the scribes and
Pharisees ? Why? By their course what had they shut
up ? Verse 13.
7.
What other sins incurred further woes ? Verses
14, 15.
8.
What kind of guides were they ? Why ? Verses
16-22.
9.
How was their carefulness in tithe-paying shown ?
Upon what did they pay tithe ? What had they omitted
to do ? What ought they to have done ? Verse 23.
Note 3. In what way did Christ illustrate their course ?
Verse 24.
10.
With what illustration and comments did He lay
bare the hypocrisy of these men ? Verses 25, 26.
11.
To what else did Jesus liken the scribes and Phar-
isees, in exposing their hypocrisy ? While without they
appeared righteous unto men, what did the Lord behold
within ? Verses 27, 28.
12.
What apparently reverent acts had increased their
SAI3BATII-SettOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
7
guilt? While garnishing the tombs of the righteous,
what did they say ? Verses 29, 30.
13.
Instead of the children of righteous forefathers,
whose children did Jesus proclaim them to be ? Verses
31, 32.
14.
With what terrible words did Jesus end His woes
upon their hypocrisy and sin? Verse 33. Note 4.
15.
What further denunciation did He utter ? Verse
34.
16: Because of their rejecting Him and His mes-
sengers, what did Jesus say should come upon that gen-
eration ? Verses 35, 36.
17. What were Jesus' sorrowful words as He left
their beautiful temple for the last time? Verses 37-39.
Nide 5.
Notes
1.
Before entering upon the woes pronounced upon the Phari-
sees, a brief review of their characteristics may be in place.
" The Pharisees were the most numerous and wealthy sect of
the Jews. . . . Their leading tenets were the following: that the
world was governed by fate, or by a fixed decree of God; that the
souls of men were immortal, and were either eternally happy or
miserable beyond the grave; that the dead would be raised; that
there were angels, good and bad. . . . Some of the laws of Moses
they maintained very strictly. In addition to the written laws,
they held to a multitude which they maintained had come down
from Moses by tradition. These they felt themselves as much
bound to observe as the written law. Under the influence of these
laws they washed themselves before meals with great scrupulonS-
ness; they fasted twice a week — on Thursday, when they sup-
posed Moses ascended Mount Sinai, and on Monday, when he
descended. . . . They were in general a corrupt, hypocritical,
office-seeking, haughty class of
men."—Barnes's Notes, volume
1, pages 50, 51.
2.
Christ took the place of a servant. Greatness in the esti-
mate of heaven consists in the service rendered others. Greatness
as viewed among men consists in being served. Christ here lays
8
SARBATIT-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
clown the eternal principle that must govern every subject of His
kingdom — that of true humility manifested in helpful service
for others. He who is constantly lifting self into prominence, is
not following in the footsteps of his lowly Master. Luke 9:48.
3.
Christ did not lessen man's obligation to faithfully pay tithe,
even upon the little profits of the garden (Luke 16:10) ; but He
wanted all to see how it is possible to neglect the great principles
of judgment, mercy, and faith, in stickling for little things.
Neither tithe-paying nor the weightier matters are to be left
undone. "Every church-member should feel under obligation to
consecrate his tithe to God. None are to follow the sight of their
eyes, or the inclination of their selfish hearts, and thus rob God.
. . . The requirement is, 'Honor the Lord with thy substance.'
The tendency to covetousness must be constantly restraim1, else
it will eat into the hearts of men and women, and they will run
greedily after
gain."—"Testimonies for the Church," volume 5,
page 481.
4.
Christ makes it plain to all the people that He is not to be
associated in their minds in any way with the wicked practises
of the Pharisees. They had sinned against great light. Jesus
was about to leave them forever. He gave them to understand that
unless they repented of their sins, they could have no share in
the kingdom of God.
5.
"Divine pity marked the countenance of the Son of God
as He cast one lingering look upon the temple and then upon His
hearers. In a voice choked by deep anguish of heart and bitter
tears He exclaimed, `0 Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the
prophets,
and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often
would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gath-
ereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not! ' This is
the separation struggle. In the lamentation of Christ the very
heart of God is pouring itself forth. It is the mysterious farewell
of the long-suffering love of the
Deity."—"Desire of Ages," page
620.
LESSON II.—The Widow's Mites; Tithing; The
Coming Agony
JULY 9,' 1910
LESSON SCRIPTURE:
Mark 12 : 41-44 ; John 12:20-36.
RELATED SCRIPTURE: Luke 21:1-4.
LESSON HELPS: "Desire of Ages," chapters 67, 68;
Sabbath
School Worker,
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
9
PLACE
:
At the temple in Jerusalem.
PERSONS: Jesus; the disciples; the rich Jews; a poor widow;
some believing Greeks.
Questions
1.
Where did Jesus one day sit while teaching at
the temple ? What attracted His attention ? What is
said of many who cast in offerings? Mark 12:41.
Note 1.
2.
Among those presenting their gifts, who came
with an offering ? How much did she give ? Verse 42.
Note 2.
3.
When Jesus saw this poor widow cast in her two
mites, what did He do ? What did He say concerning
her gift ? Verse 43. Note 3.
FAITHFULNESS IN TITHES AND OFFERINGS
4.
In presenting offerings to God, what should lie
back of every gift ? For God to accept it, what must
not be the motive or purpose ? Why ? 2 Cor. 9 : 7,
A. R. V.
5.
What is God able to do for every giver whose
purpose is like that of the poor widow ? Verse 8; Prov.
11 : 24, 25.
6.
What trait of character does God especially ab-
hor ? Isa. 57 : 17 ; Eph. 5 : 3.
7.
What commandment of God does a covetous per-
son break? Col. 3: 5.
8.
What should the men chosen for leaders hate ?
Ex. 18:21.
9.
What does God require of every one? Mal.
3: 8-10.
10.
Is there danger of the promised blessing being
10
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
withheld, should the gifts be withheld through covet-
ousness? Joshua 7: 11-13.
11.
How liberally has God given in our behalf? Rom.
8: 32. Note 4.
12.
Out of what did Jesus say the rich had cast into
the treasury? Out of what had the widow put in her
offering? How much did she put in? Mark 12 : 44.
13.
What does it mean, then, to give the "widow's
two mites"?
CHRIST'S APPROACHING DEATH
14.
What request did certain Greeks attending the
feast at Jerusalem make of Philip ? How was their
request treated? John 12: 20-22. See "Desire of
Ages," chapter 68.
15.
For what event did Jesus seek to prepare His
disciples? Verses 23, 27-33.
16.
What important instruction did He give regard-
ing our life? Verses 24-26. Note 5.
17.
In view of His soon leaving them, what admoni-
tion did Jesus give the disciples? Verses 35, 36.
Notes
1. Let it be noticed that Jesus saw all the gifts, and compre-
hended their value as money was at that time counted. He be-
held the ''much" cast in by the "many" who were "rich." He
also saw the little cast in by the poor.
He
saw infinitely more than
all this. He accurately balanced the gift with the circumstances
of the giver. The value in His sight was not altogether measured
by the amount cast in. Jesus looked into the hearts of the givers,
and beheld the motive prompting the gift. This "how" the
givers gave above all else made the offering either of little value
or precious in the eyes of the Master. The many rich cast
in a little of their surplus. The destitute widow put in "out of
her deficiency, all as much as she had . . . the whole of .her
living."—
Rotherham.
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
11
2.
""
-
tneamrites: The
word translated
mite
denotes a small
coin made of brass — the smallest in use among the Jews. -The
precise
- can- not -be- easily- estimated. —It - was- much-less - than
any coin- we - have, -as- the
farthing-
was less- than- an -English-far
,
Mug.-- It was in value about three mills and a half, or one third of
a cent. "—
Barnes motes,
3.
"Many of the rich brought large sums, which they pre-
sented with great ostentation. Jesus looked upon them sadly,
but made no comment on their liberal offerings. Piesently His
countenance lighted as He saw a poor widow approach hesitatingly,
as though fearful of being observed. As the rich and haughty
swept by, to deposit their offerings, she shrank back as if hardly
daring to venture farther. And yet she longed to do something,
little though it might be, for the cause she loved. She looked
at the gift in her hand. It was very small
in
comparison with
the gifts of those around her, yet it was her all. Watching her
opportunity, she hurriedly threw in her two mites, and turned to
hasten away. But in doing this she caught the eye of Jesus,
-
which
fastened earnestly upon her.
" The Saviour called His disciples to Him, and bade them mark
the widow's poverty. Then His words of commendation fell upon
her ear: 'Of a truth
I
say unto you, that this poor widow hath
east in more than they all.' Tears of joy filled her eyes as she
felt that her act was understood and appreciated. . . . Jesus
understood her motive."—"Desire
of Ages," pages 614, 615.
4.
"It was a costly sacrifice that the Lord of heaven made.
Divine benevolence was 'stirred to its unfathomable depths; it
was impossible for God to give more
[as
was also true of the
poor widow in our lesson]. He `so loved the world, that He gave
His only-begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should
not perish; but have everlasting life.' Why is our gratitude so
limited'? It is only as a ripple on the surface, compared with
the great tide of love that flows to us from the
Father."—"Tes-
timonies for the Church," volume 9, pages 59, 60.
John 3:16;
2 Cor. 9:8.
5.
"As the disciples bore the message of the Greeks to Jesus
and awaited His answer, He seemed to be in a ,deep study, and
answered them: 'The hour is come that the Son of Man should be
glorified. Verily, verily,
I
say unto you, Except a corn of wheat
fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone; but if it die, it
bringeth forth much fruit.' The request of the Greeks to see
Jesus brought the future before Him. . . . Jesus regarded these
Greeks as representatives of the Gentiles at large. In them He
discerned the first-fruits of an abundant harvest, when all nations,
tongues, and people upon the face of the earth should hear the
12
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
glad tidings of salvation through Christ. He saw that the gath-
ering of the Gentiles was to follow His approaching death."—
"Spirit of Prophecy," volume 3, pages 74, 75.
This same principle holds good in our dedication of property
to the cause of God. We can not
give it
and
keep it
at the same
time. That which is placed upon the altar is expected to be con-
sumed. But, like the kernel of wheat, it perishes only to bring
forth an abundant harvest later. That which dies, multiplies, and
so is saved; that which is preserved, abides alone, and in the
end is lost.
LESSON
Unbelief of the Jews; Jesits Foretells
-the End of the World
JULY 16, 1910
LESSON SCRIPTURE:
John 12:37-50; Matt. 24:1-14.
RELATED SCRIPTURES: Mark 13:1-13; Luke 21:5-19.
LESSON HELPS : "Desire of Ages," chapter 69;
Sabbath
School Worker.
PLACES: In the court of the temple at Jerusalem; the Mount
of Olives.
PERSONS: Jesus; the disciples; scribes and Pharisees; the
multitude.
Questions
UNBELIEF OF THE JEWS
1.
What is said regarding some who beheld the
many miracles wrought by Christ ? John 12 : 37.
2.
In what words had the prophet Isaiah foretold
the spiritual condition of the people at this time ? What
would the Lord have done for them had they believed
on Him and forsaken their sins ? Verses 38-41. Note 1.
3.
What did many of the chief rulers do ? Why did
they not publicly confess their belief in Jesus? What
further reason is given why they would not openly
confess Jesus' name? Verses 42, 43.
4.
What was involved in their believing in Him ?
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY •
13
Whom did they see while beholding Him ? Verses 44, 45.
•
5. What did Jesus say He came into the world to
he? What would be the result to every one who be-
lieved on Him? Verse 46.
6.
Even though a man should reject His words and
not believe upon Him, what did Jesus say He would not
do ? Why ? What will judge those who reject Him and
His words? Verses 47, 48.
7.
Upon whose authority did Jesus say He had not
spoken? Who did He say had instructed Him what
to say? What testimony did He bear concerning the
Father's commandment? How had He relieved Him-
self of all responsibility as to their unbelief of the
Father's messages to them? Verses 49, 50.
FORETELLING THE END
8.
To what did one of the disciples call Jesus' at-
tention as they left the temple? What was the Master's
reply ? Mark 13: 1, 2.
9.
When they reached the Mount of Olives, who came
to Jesus privately ? Verse 3. What direct questions
did they ask the Lord? Matt. 24: 3, last part. Note 2.
10.
With what important words did Jesus begin to
unfold to His disciples the future events of which they
had inquired? Verse 4.
11.
What would many do? What would be the re-
sult ? Verse 5. Note 3.
12.
Of what would they hear? How did He instruct
His disciples to look upon these things ? Verse 6.
13.
What would be the attitude of one nation toward
14
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
another What would follow these wars ? All these
would be the beginning of what? Verses 7, 8.
14.
What did Jesus
say
would be the attitude of the
nations toward His people ? Why would they be hated ?
How would this persecution affect some of the believers ?
Verses 9, 10.
15.
What class of deceivers would arise ? What
would be the effect of the prevailing iniquity upon the
church ? What promise did the Lord make to those
who should endure unto the end? Verses 11-13. •
16.
How extensively was the Gospel to be preached?
For what purpose? What would then take place?
Verse 14.
Notes
1.
God hardens the heart of no one save as the rejection of His
mercy leaves the heart ever harder. It is the attitude of the
individual to the light and truth God sends, that effects changes
upon the heart. While the gospel continues, God will seek to
draw men unto Himself. Rev. 22:17, He is no respecter of
persons. But when we refuse to walk in the light, reject the
gracious wooing of the Spirit, rebel against correction, we harden
our hearts. Thus it was with Pharaoh; thus it was with the
Jews; thus it is to-day. Heb. 3:12, 13, 15. Observe that in verse
37 reference is made to the
unbelief
of the Jews.
2.
"Jesus did not answer His disciples by taking up separately
the destruction of Jerusalem and the great day of His coming.
He mingled the description of these two events. Had He opened
to His disciples future events as He beheld them, they would have
been
unable to endure the sight. In mercy to them He blended
the description of the two great crises,
leaving the disciples to
study out the meaning for themselves. When He referred to the
destruction of Jerusalem, His prophetic words reached beyond that
event to the final conflagration in that day when the Lord shall
rise out of His place to punish the world for their iniquity, when
the earth shall disclose her blood, and shall no more cover her
slain. This entire discourse was given, not for the disciples only,
but for those who should live in the last scenes of this earth's
history."—"Desire
of Ages," page 6$8,
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
15
3. " Turning to the disciples, Christ said, Take heed that no
man deceive you. For many shall come in My name, saying, I am
Christ; and shall deceive many.' Many false messiahs will ap-
pear, claiming to work miracles, and declaring that the time of
the deliverance of the Jewish nation has come. These will mis-
lead many. Christ's -words were fulfilled. Between His death
and the siege of Jerusalem many false messiahs appeared. But
this warning was given also to those who live in this age of the
world. The same deceptions practised prior to the destruction
of Jerusalem have been practised through the ages, and will be
practised
again."—"Desire of Ages," page 628.
LESSON IV.— The Destruction of Jerusalem; Signs
of the Coming of Christ
JULY 23, 1910
LESSON SCRIPTURE
: Matt.
24:15
-
36.
PARALLEL SCRIPTURES: Mark 13:14-31; Luke 21:20-33.
LESSON HELPS: "Desire of Ages," chapter 69; "Great Con-
troversy," chapters 1 and 2;
Sabbath School Worker.
PLACE: The Mount of Olives.
PERSONS
:
Jesus and the disciples.
Questions
1.
With what words did Jesus predict the destruc-
tion of Jerusalem? Matt. 24:15: Note 1.
2.
What would be necessary on the part of the
Christians to secure safety? Verses 16-20. Note 2.
3.
Following the destruction of Jerusalem, what
were the people of God to experience? What would be
done for the elect's sake? For what purpose? Verses
21, 22. Note 3.
4.
When men arose claiming to be the Messiah, what
were Jesus' disciples to do? What proof would these
false christs and false prophets bring to substantiate
their claims? With what object in view? Verses 23, 24.
16
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
5.
Why need none of Jesus' followers be deceived?
When enticed to go into some desert place to find the
Christ, what were they to do? If asked to go to some
secret chamber to find the Lord, what were they to do?
Verses 25, 26.
6.
With what words did Jesus describe His return
to the earth? Verse 27. Note 4.
7.
What signs of His coming did Jesus say would
take place immediately following the great persecution?
Verse 29. How has the time for the appearance of these
true signs been more definitely located? Mark 13 : 24.
Tell when each of these took place as recorded in his-
tory. Note 5.
8.
What follows all these signs ? How will the com-
ing of the Son of man affect the inhabitants of earth ?
Matt. 24: 30.
9.
Who will be associated with Jesus in reaping the
harvest of the earth ? How general will be this gather-
ing of His saints? Verse 31.
10.
What parable did Jesus then speak? What might
we know when the signs He foretold, should take place ?
Verses 32, 33.
11.
What statement did Jesus make concerning that
generation who should witness the signs of His com-
ing
Verse 34.
12.
Desiring to make still more impressive and sure
what He had said about His second coming, what im-
portant statement did Jesus make ? Verse 35.
13.
What instruction did Jesus give concerning the
exact time of His coming? Verse 36.
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
17
Notes
1.
In the first investment of Jerusalem by the Roman army,
Cestius advanced to the inner wall and pitched his camp opposite
the strong positions of the palace and the temple. "Had he im-
mediately assailed the walls in front of him, we are told he
would have had an easy victory; but, like not a few generals of be-
sieging armies, he preferred caution to dash, and so allowed the
favorable moment to pass unimproved. Josephus deplores this
delay, since, in his opinion, the capture of the city at that time
would at once have ended the war. He lays the blame on the
governor, Florus, who for his own purpose desired that the war
should be prolonged. Florus, he says, bribed a great number of
the Roman officers, and so prevented an immediate attack.
"A large party of the people now made overtures to Cestius,
and offered to open the gates for him. Again he hesitated, until
the Zealots within discovered the plot and punished its authors by
throwing them down from the city wall. For five days the Romans
continued their desultory attacks without success. They then
assailed the northern wall of the temple, and when the Jewish
darts rained down upon them like hailstones, they put their
shields over their heads, and standing or crouching close together,
lapped one shield over the edge of another, and thus formed a
complete covering like the crust or shell of a single huge animal;
this arrangement was known as the
testudo,
or tortoise, and was
a regular and effective maneuver of the Roman army in carrying
on a siege.
"And now a horrible fear ran through the city as the Roman
soldiers, under the protection of their shields, maintained their
ground, undermined the wall, and prepared to set fire to the
gate of the temple. But of this panic Cestius seemed not to be
aware, and if he heard of the existence of a large body of sym-
pathizers within the walls, he either did not believe it or did not
care to trust his army to them. Suddenly he suspended operations,
renounced his advantages, and withdrew from the temple wall.
It was an act so difficult to account for that naturally it was
ascribed to a higher power than man. Josephus regarded it as
proving the divine anger, for he believed that if the city had been
captured then all the subsequent horrors of the war would have
been avoided. Others supposed that this was the opportunity
pointed out to the' disciples by the Saviour, when they might
escape to a place of safety and avoid all the coming woes of the
siege."—"Extile to Overthrow," pages 303, 304.
2.
"Not one Christian perished in the destruction of Jeru-
salem. Christ had given His disciples warning, and all who be-
lieved His words watched for the promised sign. .
. After the
18
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
Romans under Cestius had surrounded the city, they unexpectedly
abandoned the siege when everything seemed favorable for an
immediate attack. . . . Events were so overruled that neither
Jews nor Romans should hinder the flight of the Christians. Upon
the retreat of Cestius, the Jews, sallying from Jerusalem, pursued
after his retiring army, and while both forces were thus fully
engaged, the Christians had an opportunity to leave the city. At
this time the country
.
also had been cleared of enemies who might
have endeavored to intercept them. At the time of the siege,
the Jews were assembled at Jerusalem to keep the Feast of
Tabernacles, and thus the Christians throughout the land were
able to make their escape unmolested. Without delay they fled
to a place of safety,— the city of Pella, in the land of Perea,
beyond Jordan."
—
'Great Controversy," pages 30, 31.
3.
The "days" of "great tribulation" Jesus• here speaks of
can be no other than the long period of 1260 years of papal per-
secution through which the church was to pass, when millions
of the saints of God were cruelly put to death as heretics. Dan.
7:25; Rev. 12:6, 13, 14. These days of papal supremacy began
in 538
A. D.,
and ended in 1798. But Jesus said the time of
persecution should be "shortened." As a result of the Reforma-
tion under Luther and his associates, Jesus' words met their
literal fulfilment in that the days of persecution were "short-
ened."
4.
The second coming of Jesus can not be counterfeited. Jesus
comes in person
.
-Acts 1:10, 11. He ..conielk with the glory of
His Father. Matt._16:27-. He is accompanied by all the holy an-
gels, who come in all their glory., Rev. 8:1;-Lake-9:26. He touché`s
not the earth, but remains in the air, sending His angels to bring
to Him the resurrected saints and those who have been changed
in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye. 1 Thess. 4:16, 17; Matt.
24:31. The whole earth will be lightened by His approach, and
every eye shall see Him. Matt. 24:27; Rev. 1:7. It will be im-
possible for Satan to counterfeit the coming of Jesus as outlined
in these words of Scripture. Thus none need be deceived by the
false teaching concerning the coming of Christ. Jesus has fore-
warned His people, so that none need be in ignorance concerning
this important event.
5.
"Almost if not altogether alone as the most mysterious
and as yet unexplained phenomenon of its kind in nature's diver-
sified range, of events during the last century, stands the dark day.
of May 19, 1780, a most unaccountable darkening of the whole
visible heavens and atmosphere in _New England, which brought
intense alarm and distress to multitudes of minds,. as well as dis- -
may to the brute creation, the fowls fleeing, bewldered, to their
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON
QtJARTEBLY
19
roosts, and the birds to their nests, and the cattle returning to
their stalls. Indeed, thousands of the good people of that day
became fully convinced that the end of all things terrestrial had
come; many gave up, for the time, their secular pursuits, and be-
took themselves to religious devotions."—" Our
First Century,"
page 88.
Burritt's "Geography of the Heavens," page 163, edition
1854, says of the star shower of 1833:
"The most sublime phenomenon of shooting stars of which the
world has furnished any record, was witnessed throughout the
United States on the morning of the 13th of November, 1833.
The entire extent of this astonishing exhibition has not been pre-
cisely ascertained; but it covered no inconsiderable portion of
the earth's surface. . . . The whole heavens seemed in motion,
and suggested to some the awful grandeur of the image employed
in the Apocalypse, upon the opening of the sixth seal, when
'the stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig-tree casteth
her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a mighty wind.' "
LESSON V.— Watchful Preparation Urged; The Par-
able of the Virgins
JULY 30, 1910
LESSON SCRIPTURE:
Matt. 24:37 to 25:13.
RELATED SCRIPTURES: Mark 13:33-37; Luke 21:34-36.
HELPS: "Patriarchs and Prophets," chapter 8; " Christ 'a
Object Lessons," pages 405-421;
Sabbath School Worker.
PLACE: Mount of Olives.
PERSONS: Jesus; the disciples.
Questions
WATCHFUL PREPARATION URGED
1. After giving the signs in the sun and moon and
stars, to what time did Jesus refer as furnishing an ex-
ample of the condition of the world just before the
end? To what did the people in Noah's time give them-
selves up without restraint? To what day did they
continue their riotous living Why did they not know
20
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
what was coming upon the earth ? Matt. 24: 37-39.
Note 1.
2.
What illustrations did Jesus use in describing the
separation that would take place ? Verses 40, 41.
3.
What solemn words of exhortation did He direct
to those who should live in the last generation ? Why ?
Mark 13: 33; Matt. 24: 42.
4.
With what illustrations did He further seek to
impress His people with the importance of being ready
for the end? Verses 43, 44; Mark 13: 34-36. Note 2.
5.
Because the end has not come as soon as expected,
what are even believers in danger of saying ? What is
that servant called who says in his heart, "My Lord
delayeth His coming"? What will this attitude lead
him to do ? Matt. 24 : 48, 49.
6.
How will such servants be surprised? What will
be their portion ? How will their disappointment af-,
feet them? Verses 50, 51. Note 3.
THE PARABLE OF THE VIRGINS
7.
To what did Jesus liken the kingdom of heaven ?
Matt. 25: 1.
8.
What is said of these virgins ? Verse 2.
9.
In what respect were five of them foolish? How
did the other five virgins manifest wisdom? Verses
3, 4.
10.
After the ten virgins took their lamps and went
forth to meet the bridegroom, what took place? Be-
cause the bridegroom tarried, what did the virgins do?
Verse 5. Note 4.
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
21
11.
What cry arose at midnight? What did all the
virgins immediately do? Verses 6, 7.
12.
What did five of them discover on trimming
their lamps? What request did they make of the wise
virgins? Verse 8.
13.
What reply was made to this request ? Verse 9.
Note 5.
14.
What did the virgins whose lamps had gone out
do ? While they were gone, who came ? Who went in
to the marriage with the bridegroom? After those who
were ready had gone in, what took place? . Verse 10.
Note 6.
15.
When the others found the door shut, what peti-
tion did they make ? Verse 11.
16.
From within came what answer ? Verse 12.
17.
What words of admonition and warning did Jesus
repeat after concluding the parable? Verse 13.
Notes
1.
It was not because that generation living at the time of
the Flood had not
heard
the warning of the coming Deluge. They
had heard it so long that it had become to them an old story.
They
"knew
not" because they
believed not
God's message.
Having cast aside God's Word as uncertain, they at last looked
upon Noah's work as a delusion, and the Flood came to them as
a surprise. So will it be in the end of the world. -For—further
study,-see "Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 95-97.
2.
''Jesus has left us word, 'Watch ye therefore: for ye know
not when the master of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight,
or at the cock-crowing, or in the morning; lest coming suddenly
he find you sleeping. And what I say unto you, I say unto all,
Watch.' We are waiting and watching for the return of the
Master, who is to bring the morning, lest coming suddenly He
find us sleeping. What time is here referred to7 Not to the
revelation of Christ in the clouds of heaven to find a people
asleep. No; but to His return from His ministration in the most
22
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
holy place of the heavenly sanctuary, when He lays off His
priestly attire, and clothes Himself with garments of vengeance,
and when the mandate goes forth, 'He that is unjust, let him
be unjust still; . . . and he that is holy, let him be holy still.' "
—"Testimonies for the Church," volume 2, page 190.
3.
"Probation closes; Christ's intercessions cease in heaven.
This time finally comes suddenly upon all, and those who have
neglected to purify their souls by obeying the truth, are found
sleeping. They became weary of waiting and watching; they
became indifferent in regard to the coming of their Master. . . .
While their interest was buried up in their worldly gains, the
work closed in the heavenly sanctuary, and they were unprepared.
If such had only known that the work of Christ in the heavenly
sanctuary would close so soon, how differently would they have
conducted themselves! how earnestly would they have watched!
The Master anticipating all this, gives them timely warning in
the command to watch. He distinctly states the suddenness of
His coming. He does not measure the time, lest we shall neglect
a momentary preparation, and in our indolence look ahead to the
time when we think He will come, and defer the preparation."
—"Testimonies for the Church," volume 2, page 191.
4.
"Trumbull, attending an Oriental wedding, saw the bride's
procession in the afternoon. He was told the bridegroom's pro-
cession would move out later in the evening. He watched for it
several hours, and seeing no sign thereof he went quietly to bed
in his tent. But at
midnight there was a cry made, 'Behold,
the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him'—
literally the
substance of his dragoman's
eall."—Peloubet's Notes, 1901.
5.
"The reply is not selfish, even in the figure, for there was
not enough
for us and you.
To have divided the oil would have
entirely defeated the purpose of the procession." "Personal
character can not be given by one man to another. . . . There is
much, indeed, we can and ought to do for each other. But we
can not give to any one the qualities which we ourselves possess,
but in which he is deficient."—Peloubet's
Notes, 1901.
6.
A modern missionary, describing
a
Hindu wedding, closes
by telling how when the bridegroom went into the house, the door
"was immediately shut and guarded by sepoys. I and others
expostulated with the doorkeepers, but in vain. Never was I so
struck with our Lord's beautiful parable as at this moment
—
and the door was .shut."—Barnes's Notes, volume 1, page 314.
,In studying this parable, it will be observed that all the virgins
took lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. All had
-
some
oil. All waited for him. But as the bridegroom tarried longer
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
23
than they thought he would, all went to sleep. All arose at mid-
night. All trimmed their lamps. Here the separation takes place.
Only five now had oil. And only those who had oil and were
ready went in before the door was shut.
LESSON VI.—Parable of the Talents; The Judgment
Scene
AUGUST 6, 1910
LESSON SCRIPTURE : Matt. 25:14-46.
RELATED SCRIPTURE: Luke 19:11-27.
LESSON HELPS: " Christ 's Object Lessons," pages 325-365;
"Desire of Ages," chapter 70;
Sabbath School Worker.
PLACE:'In the vicinity of Jerusalem, probably on the Mount
of Olives.
PERSONS: Jesus and His disciples.
Questions
THE TALENTS
1.
To whom did Jesus liken the kingdom of heaven?
What was this nobleman to receive while away ? Before
leaving on his long journey, whom did he call to him?
For what purpose? Matt. 25: 14; Luke 19: 12. Note 1.
2.
How did the nobleman distribute his goods?
What rule governed him in bestowing gifts unto his
servants? Where did he then go ? Matt. 25 : 15.
Note 2.
3.
After his departure, what did the servants do ?
Give the results of their use of their lord's money.
Verses 16-18.
4.
After a long time, what took place ? Verse 19.
5.
What report did the servant give who had re-
24
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
ceived five talents? What did his lord say to him?
Verses 20, 21.
6.
When the servant who had two talents was called,
what did he say? How did his lord regard his work?
Verses 22, 23.
7.
What report did the man who had received one
talent give when called? Verses 24, 25. Note 3.
8.
How did the Master address this servant? Upon
what did he base his rebuke? What did he say should
have been done with the money ? Verses 26, 27 ; Luke
19 : 22, 23.
•
9.
What command did the Master give concerning
the talent lent this servant ? Why was this talent given
to the one who had received the five talents ? What sen-
tence was then pronounced upon this slothful servant?
What will be the experience of those cast into outer
darkness? Matt. 25 : 28-30.
THE FINAL SEPARATION
10.
To what scene did Jesus next direct the minds of
the disciples ? When will He sit upon the throne of
His. glory? Verse 31.
11.
Who will be gathered before Him at that time ?
What separation will then take place ? Verses 32, 33.
12.
What will the King then say to those on His
right hand ? Verses 34-36. Note 4.
13.
What reply do the righteous make to these gra-
cious words from the One upon the throne? Verses
37-39.
14.
Give the King's answer. Verse 40.
15.
What words are then addressed to those upon
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
25
His left hand? How does He explain that this class
had failed in serving Him? Having failed in securing
Christ, with whom must their lot now be cast? Verses
41-43.
16.
How do these people reply? Verse 44.
17.
What answer is returned by the King? Verse 45.
18.
What is said of the reward of those upon His
left hand? Of those upon His right? Verses 46.
Notes
1.
The parable of the talents is an explanation of the waiting
time between Jesus' departure and His return. The parable of
the ten virgins emphasizes the need of continual preparation for
the Master's return; this of the talents, the use of the time during
His absence. The woids, "Occupy till I come" (Luke 19:13),
show that this parable reaches, as does that of the ten virgins,
to the end of the world.
2.
"
'His goods.'
His property — representing the offices,
abilities, and opportunities for doing good, which He has given
to His professed followers." "The word 'talents' here is used
to denote indefinitely a
large sum,
and is designed to refer to the
endowments conferred on men. We have retained in our language
the word 'talent' as referring to the abilities or gifts of men."
—Barnes's Notes, volume 1, page 318.
3.
"It needs no comment to show that his [the one-talent serv-
ant'sl own words, however honest and self-righteous they might
sound, admitted dereliction of his work and duty as a servant,
and entire misunderstanding as well as heart-alienation from his
master. He served him not, and he knew him not; he loved
him not, and he sympathized not with him. But, besides, his
answer was also an insult and a mendacious pretext. He had
been idle and unwilling to work for his master. If he worked, it
would be for himself. He would not incur the difficulties, the
self-denial, perhaps the reproach, connected with his master's
work. We recognize here those who, although His servants, yet,
from selfish indulgence and worldliness, will not do work for
Christ with the one talent entrusted to them — that is, even
though the responsibility and claim upon them be the smallest"—
Edersheim's "Life and Times of Jesus," volume 2, page 462.
4.
"Even among the heathen are those who have cherished the
spirit of kindness; before the words of life had fallen upon
26
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
their ears they have befriended the missionaries, even ministering
to them at the peril of their own lives. . . . How glad will be
the heart of Infinite Love as His followers look up with surprise
and joy at His words of approval."—"Desire'of
Ages," page 638.
LESSON VII.— Enemies Plan Jesus' Death; Prepa-
ration for the Passover; Beginning of the
Passover Meal
AUGUST 13, 1910
LESSON SCRIPTURE: Matt. 26:1-5; Luke 22:1-18.
RELATED SCRIPTURES: Matt. 26:14-20; Mark 14:1, 2, 10-17.
LESSON HELPS: "Desire of Ages," chapter 71;
Sabbath
School Worker.
PLACES: Probably the Mount of Olives; the upper room
where the last Passover supper was eaten.
PERSONS: Jesus; the disciples; the chief priests, scribes, and
elders, and Caiaphas; and the man who gave them the use f his
guest-chamber.
Questions
PLOTTING OF THE CHIEF PRIESTS TO KILL JESUS
1.
At the close of Jesus' prophetic discourse with
the disciples upon the Mount of Olives, of what feast
did He speak ? What did He say would at that time
take place ? Matt. 26 : 1, 2. Note 1.
2.
Who assembled at the palace of the high priest ?
Give the name of the high priest. Name three conclu-
sions reached at this council concerning Jesus. Verses
3-5. Note 2.
3.
Who took control of Judas at this time? Among
whom was he numbered? Having yielded himself to the
enemy, where was he led? What was his object in
visiting the chief priests ? Luke 22 : 3, 4. Note 3.
4.
How did the chief priests receive Judas? Into
SAftBATtl-SCITOot, LESSON
QVART
-
gRtAr
27
what covenant did they enter with him ? What did
he promise to do? Verses 5, 6.
PREPARATION FOR THE PASSOVER
5.
What feast was now near at hand? What ques-
tion did the disciples ask Jesus? Matt. 26 : 17.
6.
What two disciples were chosen to make the need-
ful preparations? What question did they ask? Luke
22 : 8, 9.
7.
Whom did Jesus say they would meet when they
should enter the city ? What were Peter and John
to do? What were they to say to this man? Verses
10, 11.
8.
What did Jesus say beforehand that this man
would do ? When shown this furnished room, what
were Peter and John to do ? What did these two dis-
ciples find on going into Jerusalem ? Verses 12, 13.
AROUND THE PASSOVER TABLE
9.
When the hour arrived for the Passover service,
what did Jesus do? Who were with Him? Verse 14.
Note 4.
10.
What did Jesus say to the twelve ? Verses 15, 16.
11.
What unexpected announcement did He then
make? Mark 14 : 18.
12.
How did this statement affect the disciples?
What question did they begin individually to ask Him ?
Verse 19.
13.
What solemn announcement did He make regard-
ing the man who should betray his Lord? Matt. 26: 24.
Note 5.
14.
Following the pronouncement of this terrible wo
28
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
upon him who should do such a thing, what question
did Judas ask ? Give Jesus' reply. Verse 25.
15. What did the Lord then do? What did He tell
the disciples to do ?. What impressive statement did
He make ? Luke 22 : 17, 18.
Notes
1.
From this point, Jesus prepares to enter the final strug-
gle with the prince of darkness. His public ministry is ended.
His heart yearningly turns to His disciples. He is closeted, as
it were, with them, and imparts all the instruction He sees they
can bear. Much that He longs to tell them is stayed upon His
lips; for they are not ready. His hour has now come, but they
are unprepared for it.
2.
It will be observed that the Bible record lifts the veil and
reveals the principal events taking place within two circles —
that of Jesus and His little band, and that of Satan and those
closely allied with him. First we are shown the one, and then
the other.
3.
"We look with horror upon the treachery of Judas; but
his case represents a large class who file in under the banner
of Christ, yet are really His worst enemies. They worship only
self and money, and use the name of Christian as a cloak to
hide their evil deeds. They sell their integrity for money, and
their Saviour for a little worldly advantage."—"Spirit
of
Prophecy," volume 3, pages 82, 83.
4.
"The request of James and John to sit on the right and
left of Christ's throne, had excited the indignation of the others.
. . . Judas was the most severe upon James and John. When
the disciples entered the supper-room, their hearts were full of
resentful feelings. Judas pressed next to Christ on the left side;
John was on the right. If there was a highest place, Judas was
determined to have it, and that place was thought to be next
to Christ. And Judas was a traitor."—"Desire
of Ages," pages
643, 644.
5.
Jesus was seeking to save Judas. This general state-
ment was designed to draw from Judas a heartfelt confession
of his crime. Now was his opportunity to confess his guilt and
receive the Saviour 's pardon. As in the case of Achan, of old,
the Lord made it as easy as possible for Judas to free himself
from the snare in which he was taken, by confessing his sin.
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
29
LESSON
Contention among the Twelve; Jesus
Washing the Disciples' Feet
AUGUST 20, 1910
LESSON SCRIPTURE:
Luke 22:24-30; John 13:1-20.
LESSON HELPS: "Desire of Ages," chapter
71; Sabbath
School Worker.
PLACE: Jerusalem, in the guest-chamber at the Passover feast.
PERSONS
:
Jesus, with the twelve.
TimE: The night preceding the crucifixion-clay.
Questions
CONTENTION AMONG THE TWELVE
1.
For what did the twelve disciples strive? Luke
22 : 24. Note 1.
2.
What did Jesus say the kings of the Gentiles
exercised? What were such supposed to be ? • Verse 25.
3.
In contrast to all this, what did Jesus say would
be the rule in His kingdom? In referring to His own
life, what position did He say He had chosen? Verses
26, 27.
4.
With what words did He commend the twelve ?
What did He appoint them? What was to be their place
and service in His kingdom? Verses 28-30.
THE ORDINANCE OF FEET-WASHING INSTITUTED
5.
Of what was Jesus fully conscious ? Understand-
ing He was soon to depart out of the world, what is
said of His love for His own? John 13 : 1.
6.
What had the devil accomplished at this time?
What purpose of the Father did Jesus fully under-
stand? Knowing all this, what did He do? Verses 2-5.
Note 2.
30
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
7.
When Peter's turn came, what did he say to
Jesus? Give the Lord's reply. Verses 6, 7.
8.
When Peter saw Jesus doing what he had re-
fused to do, what feeling did he emphatically express?
Give Jesus' answer. Verse 8.
9.
What further statement by Peter showed that
.
he
did not understand the deep meaning of the Master's
act? With what words did Jesus begin to unfold its
significance ? Verses 9-11. Note 3.
10.
Of what defilement was Jesus speaking? Mark
7 : 20-23.
11.
When He had finished washing the feet of His
disciples, and had taken His seat, what did He say?
John 13 : 12-15. Note 4.
12.
What principle of true service did He then lay
down for all His followers? How did He point out that
happiness could be found? Verses 16, 17.
13.
In heaven, what was the position of the Son of
God? John 1 : 1-3.
14.
To teach us true humility, and show how offensive
in the sight of Heaven is self-exaltation, what did Jesus
do ? Phil. 2: 6, 7; Matt. 20 : 28. Note 5.
15.
Why did .the Lord tell beforehand who should
betray Him? John 13: 18, 19.
16.
What important consequences attach to receiv-
ing a messenger sent by Jesus? Verse 20.
Notes
1. "With Judas an element of antagonism was introduced
among the disciples. . . . Though recognizing the divine power
of the love of Christ, Judas did not yield to its supremacy. He
continued to cherish his own judgment and opinions, his dispo-
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
31
sition to criticize and condemn. Christ's motives and movements,
often so far above his comprehension, excited doubt and disap-
proval, and his own questionings and ambitions were insinuated
to the disciples. Many of their contentions for supremacy, much
of their dissatisfaction with Christ's methods, originated with
Judas."—"Education," pages 91, 92.
Matt. 18:1; Mark
9:33, 34.
2.
"Another cause of dissension had arisen. At a feast it
was customary for a servant to wash the feet of the guests,
and on this occasion preparation had been made [by Peter and
John] for the service. The pitcher, the basin, and the towel
were there, in readiness for the feet-washing; but no servant
was present, and it was the disciples' part to perform it. But
each of the disciples, yielding to wounded pride, determined not
to act the part of a servant. All manifested a stoical unconcern,
seeming unconscious that there was anything for them to do.
By their
silence
they refused to humble themselves. "—"Desire
of Ages," page 644.
"Such girding was the common mark of a slave, by whom the
service of foot-washing was ordinarily performed."—Edersheim's
"Life and Times of Jesus," volume 2, pages 501, 502.
3.
"So far as Judas himself was concerned, Christ's work of
love had been without avail. But not so as regards his fellow
disciples. To them it was a lesson of lifelong influence. Ever
would its example of tenderness and long-suffering mold their
intercourse with the tempted and the erring. And it had other
lessons. At the ordination of the twelve, the disciples had greatly
desired that Judas should become one of their number; and they
had counted his secession an event of much promise to the apos-
tolic band. . . . But the methods he desired to introduce into
Christ's work were based upon worldly principles and were
controlled by worldly
policy." `Education," page 93.
4.
"Christ would have His disciples understand that although
He had washed their feet, this did not in the least detract from
His dignity. . . . Being so infinitely superior, He imparted
grace and significance to the service. No one was so exalted
as Christ, and yet He stooped to the humblest
duty."—"Desire
of Ages," page 649.
"Ye
also
ought
to wash one another's feet." The Standard
Dictionary
says: "Ought
is used chiefly as auxiliary, expressing
obligation or fitness. To be under moral obligation to be or do;
be bound in duty or by the principles of right." Ye are bound
by duty, by an obligation, to do as I have done, to wash one
a.nother's feet. Not simply be willing to do it, but do it. And in
the doing, happiness will be found.
32
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
5.
The word " servant " was often applied to a slave. Judas
regarded Jesus at the feet-washing as a slave, and it is quite
significant that he sold Him for just thirty pieces of silver — the
acknowledged price of a slave. " For thirty pieces of silver —
the price of a slave — he sold the Lord of Glory to ignominy
and death.
"—"Desire
of Ages," page 716.
LESSON IX.— Jesus Points Out the Traitor; The
Lord's Supper Instituted; Dispersion and
Denial Foretold
AUGUST 27, 1910
LESSON SCRIPTURE:
John 13:18-38; Mark 14:22-31.
PARALLEL SCRIPTURES: Matt. 26:21-35; Luke 22:19-23, 31-38;
1 Cor. 11:23-26.
LESSON HELPS: "Desire of Ages," chapters 72, 76;
Sab-
bath School Worker.
PERSONS :
Jesus, with the twelve.
PLACE: Jerusalem, in the guest-chamber at the Passover
feast.
TIME: The night preceding the crucifixion-day.
Questions
JESUS
POINTS OUT THE TRAITOR
1.
After the ordinance of humility, what did Jesus
say ? Matt. 26 : 21 ; John 13 : 18-21.
2.
What was the effect upon the disciples of this
statement from their Master ? What question did they
ask ? Matt. 26 : 22. Note 1.
3.
What further question did John ask? What reply
did Jesus make ? John 13 : 23-25 ; Matt. 26 : 23, 24.
4.
What question did Judas 'then ask? What did
Jesus say to him ? Matt. 26 : 25. Note 2.
THE
LORD'S SUPPER INSTITUTED
5.
As they ate the Passover meal, what did Jesus
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLV
33
do? What did IIe say concerning the bread and the
wine that He had blessed? Mark 14: 22-24; Matt. 26:
26-28. Note 3.
6.
What important statement did He make
.
with
reference to His eating of the fruit of the vine? Matt.
26: 29. Note 4.
7.
When Judas saw that he was known as a traitor,
what did he do? John 13: 30. Note 5.
8.
When Judas had departed, what did Jesus say?
Verses 31-35.
9.
In what respect was the commandment to love
one another new? Verse 34. Note 6.
10.
When this new Christ-love is seen in the believer,
what is the result ? Verse 35.
DISPERSION AND DENIAL FORETOLD
11.
What startling statement did Jesus make regard-
ing the eleven ? Matt. 26: 31.
12.
Why did He tell beforehand what was to take
place? John 13: 19. Note 7.
13.
How did Peter declare his loyalty to his Master ?
Matt. 26:33.
14.
What did Jesus tell Peter he surely would do
before morning? Verse 34; Luke 22: 34.
15.
With what words did Peter deny this charge?
What position did the rest of the disciples take? What
did Jesus say He had done for Peter? Matt. 26: 35;
Luke 22: 31, 32. Note 8.
16.
What lesson may we learn from this experience
of the disciples?
34
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
Notes
1.
"As they realized the full import of His words and re-
membered how true His sayings were, a sudden fear and self-
distrust seized them. They began to examine their own hearts
to ascertain if one thought against the Master found lodgment
there. With the most painful feelings, one after another inquired,
'Lord, is it IV But Judas sat silent."—"Spirit
of Prophecy,"
volume 3, pages 85, 86.
2.
"John in deep distress at last inquired, 'Lord, who is itl'
And Jesus answered, 'He that dippeth his hand with Me in the
dish, the same shall betray Me. The Son of man goeth as it is
written of Him: but wo unto that man by whom the Son of
man is betrayed; it had been good for that man if he had not
been born.' The disciples had searched one another's faces
closely as they asked, 'Lord, is it
And now the silence of
Judas drew all eyes to him. Amid the confusion of questions
and expressions of astonishment, Judas had not heard the words
of Jesus in answer to John's question. But now, to escape
the scrutiny of the disciples, he asked as they had done, 'Master,
is it IV Jesus solemnly replied, 'Thou hast said.'
"—"Desire
of Ages," page 654.
3.
"Though Jesus knew Judas from the beginning, He washed
his feet. And the betrayer was privileged to unite with Christ
in partaking of the sacrament. .
. This example is for us.
When we suppose one to be in error and sin, we are not to divorce
ourselves from him. .
. Christ's example forbids exclusive-
ness at the Lord's supper. It is true that open sin excludes the
guilty. This the Holy Spirit plainly teaches (1 Cor. 5:11).
But beyond this none are to pass judgment."—"Desire
of Ages,"
pages 655, 656.
4.
Instead of to an earthly kingdom, Jesus directed their
minds to that time when they should be with Him again in the
kingdom of God.
He
also connected the important events of His
death with His second coming — a hope that was to cheer the
believer until the close of time. 1 Cor. 11:26.
5.
"In surprise and confusion at the exposure of his purpose,
Judas rose hastily to leave the room. 'Then said Jesus unto
him, That thou doest, do quickly. . . . He then having re-
ceived the sop went immediately out: and it was night.' Night
it was to the traitor as he turned away from Christ into the
outer darkness. Until this step was taken, Judas had not passed
beyond the possibility of repentance. But when he left the pres-
ence of his Lord and his fellow disciples, the final decision had
been made. He bad passed the boundary
line."—"Desire of
Ages," page 654.
SABBATH-SCHOOL SSON QUARTERLY
35
6.
To love one another, was not 'a new precept. But never
before bad the world witnessed
such
rove as the love of Jesus.
The new feature of this command was "that ye love one another"
"as I have loved you." John 13:1; Rom. 5:5 r1 John 3:18, 14.
7.
"Had Jesus remained silent, in apparent ignorance of
that which was to come upon Him, an impression might have been
left on the minds of His disciples that their Master had not
divine foresight."—"Spirit
of Prophecy," volume 3, page 87.
8.
"Over and over again, on the very verge of ruin, Peter's
words of boasting brought him nearer and still nearer to the
brink. Over and over again was given the warning, 'Thou
shalt . . . deny that thou knowest Me.' . . . When in the
judgment-hall the words of denial had been spoken; when Peter's
love and loyalty, awakened under the Saviour's glance of pity
and love and sorrow, had sent him forth to the garden where
Christ had wept and prayed; when his tears of remorse dropped
upon the sod that had been moistened with the blood-drops of
His agony,— then the Saviour's words,
have prayed for thee;
. . . when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren,' were
a stay to his soul. Christ, though foreseeing his sin, had not
abandoned him to
despair."—"Education," page 89.
LESSON X.— Jesus Comforts His Disciples
SEPTEMBER 3, 1910
LESSON SCRIPTURE: John 14.
LESSON HELPS: "Desire of Ages," chapter 73;
Sabbath
School Worker.
PLACE: Generally understood to be the guest-chamber at
Jerusalem.
PERSONS: Jesus and the eleven.
TIME
:
The night preceding the crucifixion-day.
Questions
1.
What statement of Jesus had made the eleven
sad? John 13 : 33.
2.
With what words did He seek to comfort their
hearts ? John 14 :1-4. Note 1.
36
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
3.
What statement did Thomas make? How did the
Lord reply? Verses 5-7.
4.
What truth concerning his Master had Philip
not yet grasped? Verses 8-11. Compare with verse 9
Heb. 1: 1-3.
5.
What did Jesus say those who believed in Him
would do? What special privilege would be granted
such 7 John 14: 12-14. Note 2.
6.
What will those do who love Him Verse 15.
Note 3.
7.
What request did Jesus promise to make of His
Father for those who loved Him and kept His com-
mandments? How long would this other Comforter
remain with believers? How intimate would be His
association with them? Verses 16, 17. Note 4.
8.
Why were they not to be left comfortless? Ex-
plain how the world would not see Him, while the be-
liever would. Verses 18-20.
9.
In what way is love for Jesus proved? What
promise is made to those who love Him? Verse 21.
10.
What important question did Judas not Is-
cariot — ask? Give the reply. Verses 22, 23.
11.
What had Jesus desired to do at this time? Why
could He not do so ? For what purpose did He tell
the disciples, while still with them, what He would do?
John 16: 12; 14:25, 29 ; 13:1
.
9.
12.
What did He say the Holy Ghost would be able
to do for them? John 14: 26.
13.
What did. Jesus bequeath to every true disciple?
Verse 27. Note 5.
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
37
14.
To what did He again refer? 'What might the
disciples have done? Why? Verse 28.
15.
Why would it be impossible for Him to talk much
more with the eleven ? Verse 30. Note 6.
16.
What would even the world know by the expe-
riences through which He was to pass? Whose com-
mandment was He obeying? What did He then say
to the disciples ? Before leaving the upper room, what
did they do? Verse 31; Matt. 26 : 30. Note 7.
Notes
1.
"There can not be doubt that the first discourse was spoken
while at the supper table. It connects itself closely with that
statement which had caused them [the disciples] so much sorrow
and perplexity, that, whither He was going, they could not come;
. . . the two great elements in the discourse being, teaching
and comfort."—Edersheim's
"Life and Times of • Jesus,
page 513.
"The object of Christ's departure was the opposite of what
the disciples feared. It did not mean a final separation. He
was going to prepare a place for then; that He might come
again, and receive them unto Himself. While He was building
mansions for them, they were to build characters after the divine
similitude."—"Desire
of Ages," page 666.
2.
"By this Christ did not mean that the disciples' work
would be of a more exalted character than His, but that it
would have greater extent. He did not refer merely to miracle-
working, but to all that would take place under the working of
the Holy Spirit."—"Desire
of Ages," page 664.
Acts 2:1-11;
Col. 1:5, 6.
3.
The condition upon which Jesus promises to send the
Holy Spirit to any one, is that he loves Him and keeps His
commandments. The • Revised Version reads, "Ye will keep
My commandments."
4.
"The Holy Spirit is Christ's representative, but divested
of the personality of humanity, and independent thereof. Cum-
bered with humanity, Christ could not be in every place person-
ally. Therefore it was for their interest that He should go to
the Father, and send the Spirit to be His successor on earth.
No one could then have any advantage because of his location
38
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
or his personal contact with Christ. By the Spirit the Saviour
would be accessible to all. In this sense He would be nearer to
them than if He had not ascended on
high." `Desire of Ages,"
page 669.
5.
What better and more valuable legacy could Jesus bequeath
His children than His own blessed peace — that heavenly peace
which the world can neither give nor take away'I It is of more
value than gold or silver or diamonds. He said, "My peace I
give
unto you." Let us take it, and be at rest in Him, amid
the troubles of life which surround us. Matt. 11:28, 29; Isa.
30:15; Phil. 4:7.
6.
"
Hath nothing in Me.'
There is in Me no principle or
feeling that accords with his, and nothing, therefore, by which
he can prevail."—Barnes's
Notes, volume 2, page 365.
7.
"Before leaving the upper chamber, the Saviour led His
disciples in a song of praise. His voice was heard, not in the
strains of some mournful lament, but in the joyful notes of the
Passover hallel [Psalm 117]:
" '0 praise the Lord, all ye nations;
Praise Him, all ye people.
For His merciful kindness is great toward us,
And the truth of the Lord endureth forever. •
Praise ye the Lord.' "
—"Desire of Ages," page 672.
LESSON XI.— The Vine and the Brandhes
SEPTEMBER 10, 1910
LESSON SCRIPTURE: John 15.
LESSON HELPS: "Desire of Ages," chapter 73;
Sabbath
School Worker.
PLACE: On the way from the upper chamber at Jerusalem
to the Garden of Gethsemane.
PERSONS: Jesus and the eleven.
TIME: The night preceding the crucifixion-day.
Questions
1. To what did Jesus liken Himself? What position
does His Father occupy ? John 15 : 1. Note 1.
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QU'ARTERLY
39
2.
What would be done with every unfruitful
branch? With every fruitful one? Verse 2; Rev. 3: 19.
3.
How are God's children made clean? What one
imperative condition of true discipleship did Jesus set
forth ? What are the results of not abiding in the Vine ?
John 15: 3-7. Note 2.
4.. How can we best glorify the Father? Verse 8.
Compare with Gal. 5: 22-26.
5.
By what words does Jesus seek to show the depth
of His love for us ? How only can the disciple abide
in Christ's love? John 15 : 9, 10.
6.
Why did He tell His disciples these things ?
Repeat the new commandment. Verses 11, 12. Note 3.
7.
What is the greatest pledge a person can give of
his love for another? How do we become friends of
Jesus? Explain the difference between being a servant
and being a friend. Verses 13-15.
8.
Of what did He remind the eleven ? What had
He ordained them to do? What did He say of the fruit
of His labor ? Verse 16. Compare with Mark 3 :13-15.
9.
What command did He repeat? What would be
the attitude of the world toward them? How did He
seek to encourage them? John 15 : 17-21.
10.
How had the Jews been made responsible in a
special
sense
for their treatment of Jesus and the truth
taught them ? Verses 22, 24. See also John 9 : 39-41.
11.
What is involved in hating Jesus? What scrip-
ture had the Jews fulfilled? John 15 : 23, 25.
12.
What further testimony did He say was to be
given concerning His work? What important work
would also devolve upon the eleven? Verses 26, 27.
40
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
Notes
1.
" The Jews had always regarded the vine as the most
noble of plants, and a type of all that was powerful, excellent,
and fruitful." "Jesus and the disciples were on the way to
Gethsemane. . . . The moon is shining bright, and reveals
to Him a flourishing grape-vine. Drawing the attention of the
disciples to it, He employs' it as a
symbol."—"Desire of Ages,"
pages 674, 675.
Isa. 5:1-7.
"What a beautiful and appropriate type does the vine af-
ford of the mystical body of Christ. .
. Christ is not the
trunk, nor the branches, but the whole vine; they are members
of His body, of His flesh, of His bones [Co]. 2:17,
19]."—
Peloubet's Notes.
2.
"
'He taketh away.'
Because their presence injures the
other branches; and their remaining is of no benefit to them-
selves. As long as there is hope of their bearing fruit, they are
permitted to remain, and are pruned and cared for. (See Luke
13:6-9). If this is of no avail, they are taken away, by the
natural withering away of those who draw no nourishment from
the true vine. They lose their interest, and practically sever
their connection with Christ and His church."—Peloubet's
Notes.
;— Jude-18-
3.
`That
My
joy:'
The same kind of joy that I have, and
to be obtained in the same way. This joy is (1) the. joy of a
free activity in doing right, like the joy of motion in health,
like the song of a bird in the morning. (2) The joy of entire
consecration and submission to God. (3) The joy of doing good,
of self-denial for others. (4) The joy of perfect faith in a wise
and loving God, committing everything to His care. (5) Joy in
the conscious love of God to us, communion and friendship with
Him. (6) The joy of loving others. (7) The joy of seeing others
saved. (8) The joy of victory. (9) In the end, outward de-
lights and pleasures to correspond with the inward
joy."—
Peloubet's Notes.
LESSON XII.— Jesus Warns His Disciples; Promises
the Holy Spirit; Prayer in Christ's Name
SEPTEMBER
17, 1910
LESSON SCRIPTURE: John 16.
HELPS: "Desire of Ages," chapter 73;
Sabbath School Worker.
PLACE: On the way from Jerusalem to Gethsemane.
PERSONS: Jesus and the eleven.
TIME: The night preceding the crucifixion-day.
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
41
Questions
JESUS WARNS HIS DISCIPLES
1.
What was Jesus' purpose in opening to His dis-
ciples future events? John
16:1.
2.
What did He say would be done to His disciples?
Why? Verses 2, 3.
3.
What further reason did He mention for explain-
ing these things to them? Why had He not told them
these things at the first ? Where did He say He was
going ? What was the effect of His words upon the
eleven? Verses 4-6.
PROMISES TO SEND THE SPIRIT
4.
What was expedient? Why? What did Jesus
promise to do when He should leave them? When the
Comforter should come, what would be His wcirk ?
Verses
7-11.
Note 1.
5.
What did Jesus at this time long to do ? What
prevented Him from doing this? Verse 12.
6.
Upon whom must He depend to do that which He
was Himself restrained from doing? What would the
Spirit of truth do? Of whom would He speak? Whom
would He glorify ? Verses 13, 14. Note 2.
7.
How did Jesus explain the expression, "He shall
receive of Mine"? Verse 15. Note 3.
8.
What did Jesus mean by the two periods of "a
little while" which He spoke about? Verses 16-22.
PRAYER IN CHRIST'S NAME
9.
What promise did Jesus give to those who ask
in His name ? Verses 23, 24.
10.
How had He taught? At some future time, what
42
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
change would take place in His manner of teaching?
Verse 25.
11.
What assurance did Jesus give of the Father's
regard for our prayers? Verses 26, 27.
12.
From whom did Jesus proceed when He came
into our world? To whom was He now about to return?
Verse 28.
13.
What did the disciples think they now fully com-
prehended? Verses 29, 30.
14.
What searching question did Jesus ask? What
statement did He make? What did He mean by "every
man" being "scattered" unto "his own"? Verses 31,
32. Note 4.
15.
Give another reason why He told the disciples
these things. What did He say they would have in
the world? With what words did He offer them cheer?
Verse 33.
Notes
1.
Christians pray to God to send them the Comforter — the
Holy Ghost. This is proper and right. But we may forget that
sometimes the only real comfort the Holy Ghost can administer
to us is to reveal our unconfessed and unforsaken sins. To get
these put away, is the best and most lasting comfort that He
can bestow. Isa. 57:17-21. If He thus comes as a
reprover,
we must still count Him as the
Comforter.
But to experience
the comfort, we must immediately confess the sin to God, and
make right any wrong we may have done others. This done,
there will be no disappointment in experiencing the promised
comfort. Acts 2:37-39; Rev. 3:18, 19.
2.
"The work of the Spirit in believers.
(1) Teaching (John
14:26); (2) guiding into all truth (John 16:13); (3) bearing
witness (John 15:26; Acts 5:32); (4) giving life (Rom. 8:11);
(5) bestowing the living water (John 4:14; 7:38, 39); (6)
bestowing gifts, as of teaching, tongues, etc. (1 Cor. 32:7-11);
(7)
shedding the love of God abroad in them (Rom. 5:5);
(8)
producing goodness and high morality (Gal. 5:22, 23; Acts
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
43
11:24) ; (
9) bestowing power (Acts 1:8; Rom. 15:19) ; (10)
bestowing wisdom (Eph. 1
:17)."—Peloubet 's Notes.
3.
Here is an exhibition of the faith of Jesus. With no
home, no earthly honor or wealth, and within a few hours of a
criminal's death, He promised His believers a share in all the
riches and glory of heaven. Being the Father's,
He claimed
these treasures as His own, and if His, then ours. He had given
up all, He claimed all. 2 Cor. 8:9. If we renounce all, like
Him,
we may claim all. Porn. 8:32. •
4.
Peter and the rest had avowed their allegiance in strong
terms (Matt. 26:33-35). They were now within two or three
hours of their great test. For it they were unprepared. Jesus
knew better than they the strength of the temptation awaiting
them. The Shepherd was to be smitten (Zech. 13:7), and the sheep
scattered. (See margin, John 16:32.) It will be observed that
this final stroke to the eleven came suddenly. Another similar
hour of trial awaits the remnant. But a living faith and trust
in God and His Word will pass the believer triumphant through
this final test into the city Jesus has gone to prepare for His
saints.
LESSON XIII.— Christ's Last Prayer with His.
Disciples
SEPTEMBER 24, 1910
LESSON SCRIPTURE :
John 17.
HELPS: "Desire of Ages," chapter 73;
Sabbath School
Worker.
PERSONS: Jesus and the eleven.
PLACE: On the way to Gethsemane.
TIME: The night preceding the crucifixion-day.
Questions
1.
After finishing His instruction to the eleven, what
did Jesus do? Give the opening words of His prayer.
John 17: 1. Note 1.
2.
What power had been given Him ? For ;v hat
purpose ? Verse 2 ; John 6 : 37.
3.
What is eternal life? John 17 : 3.
44
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
4.
What had Jesus done on earth? Verse 4.
5.
For what did He ask? To whom had He mani-
fested the Father's name? How had those given Him
related themselves to the Father's Word? Verses 5, 6.
6.
What did Jesus say these followers knew and
believed? Verses 7, 8.
7.
For whom did He pray? For whom did He not
pray? To whom do those who believe on Him belong?
In what way did Jesus also claim them? In whom
is Christ glorified? Verses 9, 10.
8.
What did He say concerning Himself ? What of
the disciples? Into whose care and keeping did He
commit them? What would thus result? Verse 11.
9.
How had He kept His disciples? What reference
did He make to the absent one? Why had He spoken
these things in the world? Verses 12, 13.
10.
What had He given them? Why were they hated
by the world? Verse 14. How did He comfort them,
in view of this hatred? Verse 16. For what did He
not pray? What was His request? Verse 15.
11.
Through what were His followers to be sanctified?
What is truth? What had Jesus Himself done? For
what? Verses 17, 19.
12.
With what exalted commission had His disciples
been endowed? Verse 18.
13.
For whom, besides those present, did Jesus pray?
What blessing did He ask for them ? What would be
the effect upon the world of this oneness among • His
followers? Verses 20, 21. (See "Patriarchs and Proph-
ets," page 520, last paragraph.)
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
45
14.
In what did Jesus glory during His earthly min-
istry? Verse 4; John 6:38.
15.
When Christ's glory is revealed in us, what will
-
be the result? Who dwells in those who are united in
the love of Christ? What will the world thus know?
John 17: 22, 23.
16.
What feature of Christ's prayer remains unful-
filled? What did He want His loved ones to see? Verse
24. Note 2.
17.
Of whom is the world in ignorance? How had
this essential knowledge concerning the Father been
placed within the reach of all? Verse 25; John 15 : 22.
18.
To whom had Jesus declared what
compre-
hended in His Father's name (Ex. 33: 18, 19) ? What
would He continue to do? With what result? John
17 : 26.
Notes
1.
It is the Son of God addressing His Father and our
Father j.(.4144i41-20... Divinity in humanity is pleading with
divinity for humanity. No other such prayer can be found upon
rccord. It is the out-breathing of divine love for God's own in
a sinful world. Ponder the prayer. Become familiar with its
words. Every sentence is full of divine meaning. Let it be-
come Jesus' prayer for
yoic,
Peter and James and John and
the other apostles are dead. But the prayer is still for those
who are
"in
the world" but "are not
of
the world." Hence,
it is for us (John 17:20).
2.
"When the great sacrifice had been consummated, Christ
ascended on high, refusing the adoration of angels until He
had presented the request, 'I will that they also, whom Thou
hast given Me, be with Me where I am' (John 17:24). Then
with inexpressible love and power came forth the answer from
the Father's throne, 'Let all the angels of God worship Him.'
Not a stain rested upon Jesus. His humiliation ended, His sac-
rifice completed, there was given unto Him a name that is above
every
name."—"Great Controversy," page 502.
Stereopticon Slides
On the Life of Christ
THE Young People's Missionary Volunteer
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seventy colored stereopticon slides on the Life
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An hour spent looking at these masterpieces
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The department also has some illustrated
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the Life-Line," four slides; "The Ninety and
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Te
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Address
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O
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longing is but a God-given desire for the "home eternal,"
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